How I Made the Switch to Tallow Deodorant (And Why I’ll Never Go Back)

Have you ever actually looked at what’s in your deodorant? Like, flipped the label over and read the ingredients?

For a long time, I didn’t. I just wanted something that worked — something that smelled nice, kept me fresh, and didn’t quit halfway through the day.

But once I started paying attention to ingredients in the rest of my skincare routine, I couldn’t unsee what was in my deodorant. Aluminum, synthetic fragrance, preservatives — and we’re applying all of that right near one of the most absorbent and sensitive areas on the body: our underarms. Right where our lymph nodes live.

That was my turning point.

Why I Don’t Use Drugstore Deodorant Anymore

I used to just grab whatever deodorant smelled the best and promised to keep me dry. That was the goal — stay fresh, stop sweating, move on. I never thought to question what was actually in it. But once I started paying attention to ingredients, I realized a lot of the products I’d relied on for years were packed with things my body didn’t need — and definitely didn’t benefit from. And once you see it, you can’t unsee it.

Here’s what you’ll find in most conventional deodorants — and why it matters:

• Aluminum Compounds

  Purpose: Blocks sweat glands to stop perspiration.

  Concerns: Linked to hormone disruption, increased estrogen activity, and possible connection to breast cancer.

  
  

• Synthetic Fragrance

  Purpose: Masks odor and gives deodorant its scent.

  Concerns: Often includes hidden phthalates — known endocrine disruptors tied to hormone imbalance and skin sensitivity.

  
  

• Triclosan

  Purpose: Antibacterial agent used to reduce odor-causing bacteria.

  Concerns: Linked to thyroid disruption, skin irritation, and potential antibiotic resistance.

  
  

• Parabens

  Purpose: Preservatives used to extend shelf life.

  Concerns: Mimic estrogen and are associated with hormone disruption and reproductive health concerns.

  
  

• Propylene Glycol

  Purpose: Helps product glide and absorb.

  Concerns: Can cause irritation and allergic reactions; some studies raise concerns around toxicity with long-term use.

Once I saw what I was putting on my skin every day — especially near my lymph nodes — I knew I needed to make a change. That’s when I started creating my own formula from ingredients I trust.

What Makes our Tallow Deodorant Different

Our tallow-based deodorant is made with ingredients that support the skin instead of stressing it out. At the center is nutrient-rich tallow, loaded with vitamins A, D, E, and K to nourish and protect the skin barrier. Coconut oil brings its natural antibacterial properties to the mix, while beeswax helps create a smooth, easy-to-apply texture that holds up through the day. For scent, we use clean, carefully chosen essential oils — no synthetic fragrances, ever.

For real odor control, we rely on magnesium oxide, a gentle alternative to baking soda that neutralizes odor without throwing off your skin’s pH. Then there’s non-nano zinc oxide, which helps soothe irritation, reduce inflammation, and fight the bacteria that actually causes odor. But the real shining star? Zinc ricinoleate — a powerhouse odor absorber derived from castor oil. It traps and binds odor molecules so they never get the chance to break free. These three ingredients are the heavy lifters — working behind the scenes to keep things balanced and fresh without blocking sweat or overloading your skin.

The result? A deodorant that’s clean, effective, and designed to support your body — not mess with it.

The Scents

We kept it simple — and amazing:

• Zest: Bergamot + Grapefruit — bright, citrusy, and fresh.

  
  

• Timber: Cypress, Cedarwood, Vanilla + Vetiver — woodsy, grounding, and bold.

  
  

• Opal: Lavender + Vanilla — soft, calming, and subtle.

  
  

• Bare: Unscented. Perfect for ultra-sensitive skin or fragrance-free lifestyles.

Why It Matters

Your armpits sit right next to your lymph nodes — and every single day, you apply deodorant right over them. That’s why switching to a non-toxic deodorant matters. Our tallow deodorant uses real, natural ingredients your body understands. No aluminum, no hormone disruptors, no synthetic fragrance cloud.

This is part of the bigger shift — moving toward tallow-based skincare that supports your health, not just your appearance. Everything I make at Lineage Natural Cosmetics is rooted in that intention.

Deodorant included.

Love,

Lia